I took my dog to for an emergency bladder surgery. I was not told what would be the cost of the surgery when I dropped her off, but was told by Dr. Smith that he would call me and give me an estimate. However, I was not told what the total cost was until after the surgery was completed. It came out to $1,200 plus dollars. The actually surgery was only $500, but I was charged over $700 in other expenses. When I went to pick up my dog, I told them they should have called to give me an estimate, because there was no way I could afford a $1,200 surgery. I gave half the payment($600), but they refused to release my dog. I had to negotiate this in the main reception area. They refused to give me explanation on the additional expenses of the bill. This was extremely embarrassing, since it was in the main lobby area. I was just told by the receptionist that they were going to keep my dog until I paid in full, and that she wasn't going to loss her job over this, so there was nothing she was willing to do to help me. I felt that they were extorting my dog, keeping my dog there would have only incurred additional expenses for them. I got the feeling that this is something they do on a regular basis. Even if I had all the money, I would have still asked for an explanation of all the charges, but they were denying me this. I advise you to get a written estimate and review all charges before you let them perform any procedures on your pet. They are in the business of making money, and their fees are extremely higher than most vets. If money is no object and you don't mind being overcharged for things, you may not have any problems with this clinic. This is not the place to go, if you are on a budget, the rates are extremely too high.
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